US and Iran face growing tensions amid ongoing protests in the region

US Arms Seized by Iranian Intelligence Agency Amid Escalating Tensions

Iran’s intelligence agency has confirmed the seizure of US arms and explosive equipment from “militants” operating in several homes across the country. The statement comes amid rising tensions between Washington and Tehran, with both sides engaging in escalating rhetoric over ongoing protests in Iran.

Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi had earlier claimed that his government had recordings of voices from abroad giving orders to “terrorist agents” to fire on police and protesters. According to Araghchi, the internet was cut off after authorities confronted terrorist operations and realized that orders were coming from outside the country.

US officials have responded to Iran’s claims by stating that top Trump administration officials are preparing diplomatic and military options to present to President Donald Trump over the ongoing protests. Vice President JD Vance and Secretary of State Rubio will be presenting a suite of options, ranging from a diplomatic approach to military actions.

Hardline US Republican Senator Lindsey Graham has urged Trump to escalate pressure on Iran’s leadership, stating that the “biggest prize” of his presidency would be the “demise of the Iranian state led by the Ayatollah”. Graham’s comments suggest that the US is considering various options for addressing the situation in Iran.

Source: Al Jazeera